Talking about the future can be exhilarating at times. We imagine our adventures, accomplishments, and who comes into our lives. Thinking about the future might overwhelm our loved ones and us as we age. With various options to weigh, having a conversation with a loved one can help decide what path to take.

Contrasting thoughts and opinions about planning for the future are likely to arise. Moving to a Personal Care community, giving up driving, downsizing from a large home, and other similar issues can be complex for loved ones.

To have a successful conversation about such topics, understand choices, be respectful, actively listen, and remain practical when problem-solving and decision-making.

Do research
Some people tend to make rash decisions under pressure. Rather than waiting for an accident or injury, consider bringing up this conversation while a loved one is healthy. It is essential to prepare.

It doesn’t hurt to do some prior research before the discussion. Look into the community’s services, care, and amenities. Discussing their wishes early on will alleviate future stress and promise to abide by their preferences when the time comes.

Addressing potential risks is also something to consider. Talk about “what if” possibilities. While focusing on this aspect, make it known that addressing this topic is out of love and care.

Be willing to listen
These talks can be emotional for all participants, so setting the stage for a fruitful one is crucial. Setting ground rules help to make the conversation’s objective clear and compelling. Because adult children or other relatives may have different ideas of what is best, set boundaries, and willingly listen to each other even when disagreeing.

Sometimes, it is common to brush off this conversation. They may believe this topic doesn’t need to be acknowledged because they are still healthy and can go about daily life independently. Do not push the envelope if they refuse to engage in this discussion.

Respecting their boundaries and refraining from arguing against their perspective goes a long way. Instead, listen to how they are feeling and make sensible suggestions. Remember, take a pause, and revisit this conversation if emotions become heightened.

Offer Solutions
The goal of having a conversation about the future is to create and solidify a plan to alleviate any uneasiness a loved one may experience.

Ensure that these discussions are productive and solution-focused by starting the planning process. An example of this would be deciding what a loved one would like to happen if they struggle to handle their simple daily tasks, among other tasks that can become a challenge.

Personal Care and Memory Care At the Park communities offer various resources that help inform and guide discussing the future with a loved one. Have any existing questions? Feel free to contact the community and find out more.